This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief keeps a solemn promise, riding north through the towering piney woods of East Texas to Tyler, where he shines a spotlight on Kiepersol Distillery and the legacy behind Jimmy’s Bourbon.

At the heart of this whiskey is Jimmy Hines, a World War II pilot who carried a bottle of whiskey with him through the war—only to trade it for a vinyl record that turned out to be blank. Imagine the heartbreak. Today, Kiepersol honors Jimmy’s spirit and sacrifice, using his pilot goggles as the symbol of their brand and his fearless outlook as the inspiration for their tagline:

“Through Hero’s Eyes.”

Big Chief sits down with distiller Dylan Latham, a man whose passion for the craft is evident in every sip. They kick things off with Jimmy’s 84-proof Bourbon, a light, crisp Texas whiskey with whispers of crackerjack and vanilla—a perfect bridge for those who love the easy-drinking nature of Irish or Scottish drams.

Next up is Jimmy’s 90-proof Bourbon, a whiskey with a cult following so loyal that it rarely stays on shelves. Deep, rich toffee notes, accented by tea and honey, make this an unmistakable Texas gem.

For the second half, Dylan and Big Chief dive into Jimmy’s Rye Whiskey—a Kentucky-style rye with layers of licorice, sweet vanilla cream, and warm spice on the back end. Smooth yet complex, it’s a rye that demands attention.

And then, the grand finale. A 10-year-old, cask-strength expression of Jimmy’s Bourbon, clocking in at 116.7 proof. This might just be the best whiskey in the Lone Star State. Deep, rich kettle corn, butterscotch, dried fruit, and chocolate flood the palate, finishing with a lingering kiss of light smoke and spice.

Kiepersol isn’t just another Texas craft distillery—it’s a place of heritage, honor, and damn good whiskey. This was a ride Big Chief will never forget.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us for another unforgettable journey on The Whiskey Trip. Cheers!

In this Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, presented by Liquor Barn, Mark is flying solo and hanging out in Bardstown, Kentucky at the original home of Jim Beam with James B. Beam Distilling Co. 8th generation Master Distiller, Freddie Noe, talking about all things country ham.

Mark and Freddie talk about the history of curing meats like country ham and the similarity of curing ham and distilling grains into whiskey, the Noe family history of curing country ham and his grandfather, Booker’s, love of curing country ham, and the different ways that people enjoy their country ham including prosciutto style which is how Mark and Freddie enjoy it on this episode.  

During the Episode they sip on a Booker’s Batch No. C90-K-28 that Mark picked up a few years ago and they enjoy it with some 19-month old prosciutto style country ham that Freddie and his dad, Fred, cured and smoked themselves in their home smokehouse.

This Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is presented by Liquor Barn and is also sponsored by Penelope Bourbon, Limestone Farms Bourbon, Regard Law Group, Old Dominick, Three Chord Bourbon, James E. Pepper Distillery, and The Kitchen Table at James B. Beam Distilling Co.

Check out all of our amazing sponsors online at: 

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief takes his larger-than-life presence to the mountains to uncover the magic of Woody Creek Distillers. And he’s not alone—he’s joined by none other than William “Bill” H. Macy—Hollywood legend turned whiskey man—alongside the brilliant Mixologist, Sean Kenyon.

Bill dives deep, telling the Big Man how he stumbled into the world of Woody Creek, sharing his favorite whiskey cocktail, singing a tune (yes, you read that right), and even giving us a sneak peek into his future acting projects. Meanwhile, Sean serves up some serious whiskey wisdom, proving that when it comes to Woody Creek’s craft, he’s the man with the plan—and the perfect pour.

The trio kicks things off with Woody Creek Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a 70% corn, 15% rye, and 15% malted barley masterpiece. One sip in, and it’s like biting into a fig cookie with a side of tart apple—complex, rich, and downright delicious.

Then, things take a turn for the spicy as they tackle Woody Creek’s 100% Rye Whiskey. Think orange spice candy meets fresh-baked raisin bread, a flavor that instantly transports you back to sneaking sweets from Grandma’s candy dish—except this time, no one’s stopping you.

This episode is all about how a hobby can turn into an obsession—and for Bill Macy, whiskey is the real deal. So, grab a glass, kick back, and join us for another wild, whiskey-filled adventure on The Whiskey Trip. Cheers!

In this REMIX Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt and Mark spend some time hanging out with Mike Sherman, Vice President, of Vendome Copper & Brass Works in Louisville, Kentucky. This Episode originally aired as Episode 208 on February 2, 2024.

The guys talk with Mike about his background and his decision at a fairly young age to join the family business, the rich history of the Vendome brand which was started in the early 1900’s by Mike’s great-grandfather, and the incredible growth of the company over the past 25 years and what the future looks like for Vendome.

They also taste and review three expressions – all of which are made using Vendome stills – including Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bourbon, Sugarlands Distilling Co. Roaming Man Tennessee Rye Whiskey Batch 12, and Old Forester 1920.

This Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by Liquor Barn, Limestone Farms, Porch Kitchen & Bar, Bluegrass Distillers, The Stave Restaurant, Three Chord Bourbon, and District 7 Social.

Check out our amazing sponsors online at: 

www.threechordbourbon.com

www.visitthekitchentable.com

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief raises a glass and his voice in honor of a fellow veteran, Preston “Papa Whiskey” Wall from Frontline Heroes Outdoors (FHO)—an organization that’s changing lives one adventure at a time.

Papa Whiskey shares the incredible mission of FHO: bringing healing, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose to military personnel, veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and their families. Through the power of the great outdoors—and yes, the unifying spirit of whiskey—FHO creates experiences that remind these heroes they are never alone.

To kick things off, Big Chief and Papa Whiskey dive into pours of Penelope Toasted Barrel picks—special selections that have not only delighted palates but also helped raise crucial funds for FHO’s mission. And the journey doesn’t stop there! In the second half, they savor outstanding whiskey from Milam & Greene, a distillery that understands the importance of supporting those who serve.

This episode reignited Big Chief’s passion for using his platform to amplify the voices of veterans and first responders—men and women who have given everything and deserve a community that gives back.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and ride along for an episode that’s more than just whiskey—it’s about brotherhood, resilience, and the power of lifting each other up. Cheers to the heroes!

In this Episode of the Bourbon Life Podcast, Mark and his special Co-Host, Chad, spend some time hanging out in The Bourbon Life Studios with Brian Luftman, Co-Founder, of Never Say Die.

The guys talk with Brian about his background as a trader in Chicago and how the connections that he made in that world eventually led him to the wonderful world of Bourbon, the incredible story behind the namesake of the brand, a horse named Never Say Die, and how a shot of Bourbon, the Epsom Derby, Queen Elizabeth, and The Beatles, all tie into the creation and story of the brand, and also Never Say Die’s unique process of shipping barrels of Kentucky Bourbon and Rye to England, via ocean passage, to continue aging and maturing in England.

They also taste and review Never Say Die’s Kentucky Straight Small Batch Bourbon, their Kentucky Straight Rye, and their Barrel Strength Kentucky Bourbon.

This Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by Three Chord Bourbon and The Kitchen Table at James B. Beam Distilling Co.

Check out our amazing sponsors online at: 

www.threechordbourbon.com

www.visitthekitchentable.com

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief visits Frankfort, Kentucky, to sit down with Jeff and Cam Mattingly of J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery and Bourbon 30—where tradition is honored, craftsmanship is respected, and every bottle carries a legacy.

For nearly two centuries, the Mattingly family has played a vital role in shaping the bourbon industry, their expertise spanning nine whiskey operations and countless collaborations with some of the most respected names in the business. Jeff and his son Cam continue that tradition, refining the single barrel selection process into something truly remarkable. But their work extends beyond whiskey—they are committed to giving back, donating $10 from every bottle sold to veteran organizations across the country. Their dedication to honoring those who have served is a testament to their values and the deeper meaning behind their craft.

Big Chief begins the show with Bourbon 30 at 100 proof—a pour that carries rich, nutty character with a warm rye spice that lingers on the palate. He then moves to their core SKU at 116 proof, a whiskey layered with deep, dark fruit sweetness, balanced by a spice that stays with you long after the last sip.

The second half of the show is a tribute to those who have sacrificed for our nation. The 82nd Airborne expression, bottled at 128 proof, is bold and unwavering—much like the paratroopers it represents. Its spice and tobacco notes command respect, a reflection of the courage and grit required to serve in one of the most demanding units in the military. To close out, Big Chief raises a glass to another military tribute—The Combat Infantry Badge, Batch 6. At 135 proof, this light whiskey is powerful yet refined, with buttery richness, seasoned oak, honey, and a touch of smoke. The finish is long and meaningful, much like the service and dedication of those it honors.

This episode is more than just a whiskey tasting—it is a moment to recognize and respect the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. As a veteran, I extend my gratitude to the Mattingly family for their commitment to both bourbon and the brave individuals who defend our freedoms.

So pour a glass, take a moment to reflect, and join us for another meaningful journey on The Whiskey Trip. Cheers!

In this Episode of the Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt & Mark spend some time hanging out in The Bourbon Life Studios with their good friend and fellow Bourbon Life Crew Member, Chad. They were going to name the Episode “Three Guys and a Bottle” but after much deliberation realized that it might not be the best idea to do so.  

The guys talk about the ratification of the new standard of identity for American Single Malt which became effective on January 19th and what that means for the whiskey industry in the US, whether the role of social media influencers and the amount of marketing in general for Bourbon have dropped off over the past few months and what that might signify overall for the Bourbon market, and the recent re-emergence of American Light Whiskey and the impact that category might have on the US whiskey market over the next few years. 

They also taste and review High Peaks Distilling’s Cloudsplitter American Single Malt, a Huling Station Trolley Stop Series Madison Ave. Line 9-Year Old Wheat Whiskey, and a Pride of Indiana 10-Year Old Straight American Whiskey.  

This Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by Three Chord Bourbon and The Kitchen Table at James B. Beam Distilling Co.

Check out our amazing sponsors online at: 

www.threechordbourbon.com

www.visitthekitchentable.com

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief heads to northern Ohio to visit his good friend and the undisputed king of all things maple—Kevin Holy, founder of Seldom Seen Farm and now the visionary behind Seldom Seen Whiskey Company.

Kevin shares the story of his family’s bold new adventure into the world of distilling with Seldom Seen Whiskey Company—DSP-OH-20142. With years of experience aging maple syrup in bourbon barrels, he’s now taking that mastery and crafting his own finished spirits—blending tradition, passion, and a touch of maple magic.

As the conversation flows, so does the whiskey. Big Chief enjoys a Giant Texas Distillery Maple Finished Cask Strength Rye, while Kevin savors a Penelope Havana—both infused with the unique character of his maple syrup bourbon barrels. Each sip tells a story, rich with the essence of hard work, patience, and craftsmanship.

This episode is about more than whiskey—it’s about the relentless pursuit of a dream, the art of the American farmer, and the magic of turning nature’s sweetness into something unforgettable.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us for another unforgettable ride on The Whiskey Trip. Cheers!

In this REMIX Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast, Matt & Mark spend some time hanging out with Tim Piersant, CEO & Founder, of Chattanooga Whiskey. This Episode originally aired on June 7, 2024 as Episode 226. 

The guys talk with Tim about his background and previous career working for his dad’s business and how he eventually ended up in the whiskey business, the creation of the Chattanooga Whiskey brand and the legal battle that they had to fight to get distilling legalized again in Chattanooga, and the incredible success that Chattanooga Whiskey has had as a privately owned, craft distillery and how they plan to maintain that level of success into the future.

They also taste and review Chattanooga Whiskey 91 Bourbon, Chattanooga Whiskey Cask 111 Bourbon, and their Chattanooga Whiskey Founder’s 12th Anniversary Blend. 

This Episode of The Bourbon Life Podcast is sponsored by Three Chord Bourbon and The Kitchen Table at James B. Beam Distilling Co.

Check out our amazing sponsors online at: 

www.threechordbourbon.com

www.visitthekitchentable.com

This week on The Whiskey Trip, Big Chief takes listeners to the bourbon capital of the world—Bardstown, Kentucky—for an unforgettable conversation with his good friend Bernie Lubbers, the National Brand Ambassador for Heaven Hill Distillery and the man known far and wide as The Whiskey Professor.

Bernie’s journey into whiskey is as fascinating as the spirits he represents. After 20 years on the comedy stage, fate led him down a different path—one paved with barrels, tradition, and the rich history of America’s native spirit. For the past two decades, he has traveled the world, first for Jim Beam and now for Heaven Hill, preaching the gospel of great bourbon. His love for Bottled-in-Bond whiskey runs deep, a passion passed down from his father, and today, he stands as one of its greatest advocates.

Chief and Bernie kick things off with a pour of the legendary Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond 6-Year—a beloved, now-discontinued gem that bourbon lovers still mourn. They then move on to JW Dant, another Bottled-in-Bond treasure that deserves a spot on every whiskey drinker’s shelf. As they dive deeper, they sip on Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond 7-Year, a whiskey bursting with rich peanut brittle sweetness and a beautifully balanced finish.

The second half of the show is nothing short of spectacular. Chief and Bernie savor the bold, oak-forward character of Henry McKenna 10-Year Bottled-in-Bond, a whiskey layered with sharp spice, honey, and warmth. And then, the moment of the night—Old Fitzgerald 19-Year Bottled-in-Bond, a rare and luxurious pour that whiskey enthusiasts dream about. Just when Chief thinks the ride couldn’t get any better, Bernie drops a bombshell: Heaven Hill is set to release an Old Fitzgerald 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond, available nationwide. 

This episode isn’t just about whiskey; it’s about passion, legacy, and the art of storytelling. Bernie Lubbers isn’t just an ambassador—he’s a master of his craft, a true whiskey evangelist who lives and breathes the spirit of Bottled-in-Bond.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us for another incredible ride on The Whiskey Trip. Cheers!